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If the sporting event you’re celebrating is a rousing game of whiffle ball or pickup basketball, then the next tailgate doesn’t have to be any farther away than your backyard. And why not? It’s summer, so the living — and the tailgating — should be easy.

The backyard tailgate, with a few (or a few dozen) of your best and closest friends, is one of our favorite parties of the season. And it’s one of the simplest. The grill is probably already sitting out there waiting for everyone. Your kitchen has a fridge, so you don’t even need a cooler. And, of course, the weather is right.

Here’s some gear to help you do up the backyard tailgate.

Photo Credit: Char-Griller

Char-Griller Wrangler Charcoal Grill ($179.00)

As farfetched as it may seem, some people out there don’t have a grill. Anyone reading this is more likely looking to upgrade or just replace what repeated use has reduced to a pile of metal. This grill makes it easy to wrangle up some grub. There’s 635 inches of cooking space (including the warming rack) and three shelves for storing tools, spices and sauces. Cast-iron grates distribute the heat evenly, and the built-in heat gauge lets you keep an eye on things. And should you need it, a convenient drawer for adding more coal slides right out.

BBQ Bro’s Rubs (Southern Style) ($25.00)

Sometimes that meat needs a little something extra before finding its way to the flame. When it comes to great BBQ taste, that’s the, um, rub. Apply one of these rubs to your meat first. From Memphis to New Orleans to Carolina, each flavor features a unique recipe for a unique taste. Also available in MSG and Gluten-free. Mmm, mmm, tasty.

Grill Daddy Heat Shield BBQ Tools Set ($59.99)

Newsflash… Grills are hot, and heat and hands don’t mix. That’s why you need the right tools for the job. Grill Daddy’s 6-piece stainless steel grilling set features a unique heat shield to protect your hands. The spatula has a built-in meat thermometer. And the tong comes with three attachments: a fish flipper for precision handling of fillets; a fork with extra-long tines and a basting brush that’s dishwasher safe. The spatula even telescopes out.

The Grill Sergeant BBQ Apron ($20.83)

Listen up soldier, the path to victory is being prepared, which is what you’ll be when wearing this camouflage grilling apron. It’s got pockets for condiments, cooking tools, and other weapons of the trade. Better yet, carry six cans of beer bandolier style for immediate deployment. Now move that food out and get it into those hungry mouths!